Your Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, October 2

We may want to withdraw socially as we continue to recover from the excitement of the past few weeks. Instead of searching for brilliant yet impractical ideas, the steadfast Taurus Moon encourages a pragmatic approach to life. It makes sense to keep things simple while paying attention to whatever’s on our plates. Fortunately, peaceful Venus forms a cooperative sextile with stabilizing Saturn, reminding us that good things come to those who wait.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may be offered a chance to cool off and take it easy today. The problem is that even if you do create a mini-vacation for yourself, unexpressed emotions can build in intensity until you have to do something about them. Go ahead and share what’s on your mind with a close friend or co-worker, but watch the tone of your delivery. There’s no need to stir up petty disputes or blame anyone else for your feelings.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Take time to recharge your emotional batteries today. Although work duties may call, make space for a bit of relaxation, too. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you have to stay productive all day. Even if there is potential trouble nearby, there’s no need to make it worse now by throwing fuel on the fire. Instead, remain cool and collected; finding pleasure in simple things rejuvenates your soul.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Usually, communicating comes naturally to you, but something seems different now. You aren’t motivated to say much today as you maintain your point of view. You might not even share anything at all, since you could believe that it’s not yet important for others to know where you stand. Nevertheless, it is crucial to trust your inner voice today, even if it still takes a while for things to change.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You might be inclined to draw a line in the sand today. If someone rubs you the wrong way, he or she may get a lot more than bargained for because you will fight back to defend what is rightfully yours. However, your real strength comes from your tenacity. You can hold on longer than anyone else, so remember that time really is on your side.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You might be feeling a sense of urgency now, as if you could lose your chance if you don’t make something happen today. Your concerns reflect an element of reality since romantic Venus leaves your sign tomorrow. However, it’s more likely that your current situation just hasn’t yet reached fruition. Taking impulsive action may not be your smartest move. Do your best to smooth over any ruffled feathers and wait for the right opportunity to ripen.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may not be very inspired today; in fact, you might feel downright lazy. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to keep up with your basic routine because falling behind could make the rest of the week more difficult. On the other hand, it’s not necessary to drive yourself harder than required. Do what you must, but reserve your energy while you can.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

An emotional issue may stubbornly work its way to the surface today as the Moon visits your 8th House of Deep Sharing. Even if you’re not comfortable talking about your feelings, making an effort to communicate is a worthwhile endeavor. However, someone’s expectations might not be reasonable now, adding to the tension. Remember you cannot please everyone, and you’ll only make yourself unhappy if you try. Those who are your true friends will remain so, even if you cannot give them what they want at this time.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your closest friends mean a lot to you, but the obstinate Taurus Moon makes it difficult to accept the differences of opinions between you and someone who is trying to help. Even if you disagree with others now, remember that the real argument is not with them, but with an aspect of yourself. Once you accept your own irresolvable paradox, the external ones become more manageable.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

It’s tough letting go of the details today, even though this isn’t usually a problem for you. Don’t be overly hard on yourself about this penchant for the minutiae now because you don’t normally allow little things to get in your way. Cut yourself some slack and take the time you need to get everything in order so you’ll be free to tackle a bigger project with enthusiasm.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You might feel as if your closest friend or partner isn’t giving you the support you need now, yet you’re cautiously optimistic, anyhow. You may be self-protective as you distance yourself from others to take care of business. Thankfully, you’re able to make decisions that will be right for you in the long run as long as you keep your priorities straight and concentrate on the most immediate tasks.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The cosmic energies are shifting again, reminding you to take action if you’re dissatisfied with your most significant relationships. However, you might not have to say anything at this time. Real transformations occur within you as your desire for direct confrontation fades. You don’t need to force any issues today. The river of change is flowing right on schedule.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your level of comfort might be surprisingly high today, even if stress fades in and out all day. Although you probably have work-related obligations, it’s still wise to set aside some time for yourself. Relationships may get confusing in the days ahead, requiring more time to straighten things out. Conserve your energy now so it’s available later in the week when you need it.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of October 1

The heat is on this Thursday as amorous Venus in romantic Leo forms an energizing square with passionate Mars in Scorpio. This cosmic intensity can provoke risky behavior, especially with the impetuous Aries Full Moon occurring on Saturday night. Expect the unexpected; radical changes in relationships are almost impossible to avoid. Keep your heart open and embrace the unknown.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

This dramatic week peaks with the Full Moon illuminating your independent and impulsive sign on Saturday night. Revolutionary Uranus adds a shocking flavor to this lunation which may spur you to act recklessly. This spontaneity might work well if you’re open to experimentation or want to break free of old habits. Restlessness and rebellion, though, can kick up explosive feelings that trigger dramatic changes in a partnership. Be honest and flexible in your approach so you can enjoy new experiences without being destructive in the process.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Surprises may come out of the blue with Saturday’s explosive Aries Full Moon lighting up your secretive 12th House of Privacy. Complicated feelings that you’ve hidden from others, maybe even from yourself, might suddenly surface. People seem unreliable now as attitudes and plans could change in an instant. Yet putting pressure on anyone is likely to backfire. Instead, allow yourself to accept strange emotional territory as if you were visiting a foreign country. Keep an open mind and be respectful to everyone you meet.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Friends could entice you to do some unusual things on Saturday with an adventuresome Aries Full Moon landing in your 11th House of Groups. If you’re not normally into joining organizations, though, this might be the time to see what one can do for your personal life. However, your desire to explain your experiences could be difficult to fulfill. It’s better to let loose and accept a little weirdness than to force yourself to make sense of emotions and people that don’t fit your usual reality.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Saturday’s Full Moon in impatient Aries is wired with hard aspects to volatile Uranus and provocative Pluto. This cosmic electricity occurs in your 10th House of Public Responsibility, making you feel like you have to put everything in order immediately. It’s healthier, though, to temporarily let go of your obligations than to try to control the behavior of others. If you can relax and enjoy the chaos, you might be surprised with how much fun it is to just go with the flow.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Your weekend could be wild with an irrepressible Aries Full Moon shining in your 9th House of Faraway Places on Saturday. You may be restless and ready to run with radical Uranus opposing the radiant Sun. Whether you need to get away from the predictability of your current relationship or are single and seeking to stretch your horizons, breaking social rules and exploring unfamiliar territory is very appealing. Just remember this escapade is a test drive rather than a long-term commitment.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Saturday’s fiery Aries Full Moon shocks your 8th House of Intimacy and rattles relationships in surprising ways. This may include a sudden attraction to someone who is far from your usual type. It might also indicate a breakthrough with your current partner that leads to a new kind of connection. Basically, it’s time to free yourself from worrying about what others think, allowing you more space to explore emotionally and physically.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

This may be a key week in your relationship life. Saturday’s electrifying Aries Full Moon lights up your 7th House of Partners and opposes the willful Sun in your sign. This volatility could attract unpredictable behavior by others, which can either be exciting or too weird for your taste. It’s better, though, for you to be the one who takes the initiative to break patterns and surprise people with a bolder and brasher approach to getting what and who you want.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Thursday and Friday are both sweet and sassy with high potential in the romance department. The spiritual and sensitive Pisces Moon occupies your amorous 5th House, inspiring fantasies about love. The best part is that you have the ability to make these dreams real now. Bold Venus in Leo tangles with passionate Mars in Scorpio on Thursday, making almost anything sound slightly seductive. Set aside time to make the most pleasurable use of these persuasive powers while you have the chance.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Saturday’s scintillating Aries Full Moon sets your 5th House of Romance on fire with desire. You’re itching for excitement and hungry for fresh forms of fun. Variety is the spice of your life so use your imagination to create new ways to play. You might shock some people with strange ideas or by coming on too strong. It may be hard to pace yourself now when you’ve got love on the brain, but a tiny bit of patience will help your cause in the long run.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your approach to love is often mature and tempered by common sense and practicality. However, that kind of rational reasoning may not work well this week. A Venus-Mars square on Thursday steams up relationships with a complex mix of mistrust and desire. The intensity grows stronger with Saturday’s explosive Aries Full Moon, making the ground tremble in your 4th House of Roots. Letting go of the past is the best way to ride this cosmic wave of change into a more exciting future.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The impulsive Aries Full Moon meets up with your revolutionary ruling planet Uranus on Saturday, triggering some unpredictable behavior and inspiring some weird conversations. You’re no stranger to unusual ideas and might find it amusing to hear some new outrageous ones, but it can be unsettling when the cautious folks start talking crazy. If it’s amusing, join the party but if it’s not that funny, just slip away to clear your mind.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The Moon in your psychically sensitive sign gets feelings flowing on Thursday and Friday. It’s natural to be tender when you’re a Fish, yet a manipulative person might undermine your trust in relationships now. Recognizing the difference between sex and love can help you determine how far you’re willing to go to gain the affection of another. Just because you find it easy to sacrifice your interests for someone else’s pleasure doesn’t mean that you should do it. Being true to yourself is the first step to figuring out what to do next.

Quiz of the Day – Are You Controlling?

Are You Controlling?

By Deepak Chopra

How much resistance are you in now? Our psychological defenses are extremely good at hiding this from us; by definition, stored-up emotions are the ones we can’t feel. However, resistance gives rise to a telltale behavior pattern—control. Having to be in control is a compulsion rooted in fear and threat.

Give yourself a point for each statement that applies to you frequently, most of the time, or almost always. Some of the statements do not sound very flattering, but try to be as candid and honest about yourself as you can.

1. I like to be in control of work situations and am much happier working alone than with others.
2. When I’m under pressure, the easiest emotion for me to show is anger or irritability.
3. I rarely tell anyone that I need them.
4. I tend to harbor old hurts. Rather than telling someone that he hurt me, I would rather fantasize about getting even.
5. I have quite a few resentments about the way my brothers and sisters relate to me.
6. The more money I spend on someone, the more that means I love them.
7. I keep to myself how unfairly others treat me.
8. If a relationship starts to go bad, I secretly wish I could take back everything I bought for that person.
9. If it’s my house, the people in it should follow my rules.
10. I find it hard to admit being vulnerable. I don’t often say “I’m wrong” and mean it.

11. It’s better to nurse my wounds than to show someone that I’m weak.
12. I’m a better talker than listener.
13. What I have to say is usually important.
14. I secretly think others don’t take my opinions as seriously as they should.
15. I have a pretty good sense of what’s good for people.
16. At least once in my life I got caught opening someone else’s mail.
17. People have called me cynical or negative.
18. I have high standards, which others sometimes mistake for criticism.
19. I tend to be a perfectionist. It bothers me to let a sloppy job go out.
20. I feel uncomfortable if someone gets too close to me emotionally.
21. After a relationship breaks up, I look back and think I was mostly right.
22. I’m neat and orderly. I like my way of doing things and find it hard to live with someone who is sloppy.
23. I’m good at scheduling my day and put a high value on punctuality.
24. I’m good at caring for other people’s needs, but then I get disappointed when they don’t think as much about mine.
25. I have a logical explanation for the way I act, even if others can’t always except it.
26. I don’t care that much if other people don’t like me.
27. In my opinion, most people don’t usually express their true motives for the way they behave.
28. I’m not good at handling noisy or rambunctious children.
29. I still blame my parents for a lot of my problems, but I haven’t told them so.
30. When I get into an argument with my spouse or lover, I can’t resist bringing up old grievances.

Next: What you score means

0-10 points

Your personality isn’t dominated by an excessive need to be in control. You are likely to be comfortable with your feelings and tolerant of other people. You realize that you are imperfect, therefore you understand the failings of others. It is easy for you to let events take their own course, and surprises don’t throw you off balance. You probably place a high value on spontaneity and the expression of emotions.

10-20 points

Being in control is a frequent issue with you. You have more fears and hurt feelings than you let on, but you don’t work hard to resolve these feelings. Being in charge isn’t necessarily that important to you, but having your way usually is. You consider yourself organized and efficient, yet it isn’t a major event if things get a little out of control. You have found someone whom you can be honest and open with, but there are limits to how much you can safely say or do, even with that person.

Over 20 points

You are a controlling person. You feel that control is necessary because people hurt your feelings a lot, and your memory of this goes back into your painful childhood. To keep from being hurt more, you try to control your feelings, which basically means you are very selective about revealing yourself to others. Your overriding need to be in charge or to have things your way drives people away from you, despite the fact that you work very hard to take care of their needs. The only emotion you show easily is anger or irritability. You constantly explain your motives and give reasons for why you are the way you are, but somehow this doesn’t help you get you what you want, which is other people’s love and affection.

Your Horoscopes for Friday, September 21

We may feel inspired to accomplish great things today, but we might end up wasting precious time vacillating between alternative options instead. The uplifting Sagittarius Moon inspires confidence and possibly even encourages unrealistic hope. Our big ideas are fueled by the Moon’s opposition to expansive Jupiter in restless Gemini, encouraging us to shoot our arrows into the sky like Sagittarius the Archer, even if we don’t yet know our target.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Emotional pressures ease now that the Moon is in fiery Sagittarius, increasing your desire to go out and do something to rev up the adrenaline in your system. Even if you have been taking care of yourself, the urge for excitement and adventure outweighs the need for safety today. Nevertheless, it’s important to demonstrate your intelligence by controlling your sudden impulses. A good idea will develop into a great one if you give it sufficient time and energy.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

A challenging issue may arise involving someone else’s property or something that you own jointly with a partner. You could feel as if others are trying to manipulate your feelings now or entice you with material temptations. Choose your battles carefully. Don’t even bother to engage in a fight if it isn’t critical. There will be time for an honest conversation once the energy settles down. Walking away may be the best way to avoid a bad scene today.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Someone could suggest an idea today that’s even more ambitious than yours. You might be eager to go for it, but fortunately your common sense could hold you back just enough to prevent you from attempting something too risky. Joking around about your current caution can effectively alleviate the impact of your negative response. Don’t get involved in a new project now unless you’re absolutely certain that it’s worth your effort.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You may have to do things for everyone else today, which makes it nearly impossible to find time to take care of your own needs. Your best strategy now is to start at the top of your list and just cross off one thing after another, even if it seems like someone else has set your priorities. Ultimately, you’re the one who stands to benefit the most if you stay focused and finish your chores. Get started right away so you have time to nurture your dreams later once your work is done.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

It could be a carefree day where your toughest decision is deciding which party to attend, what time to leave for the beach, or who you should invite out to play. Although your penchant for pleasure might be overstated, there is plenty of room to create memorable experiences now. No matter how much work you have to do today, make time to luxuriate in the velvety richness of your own mental playground.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may be intrigued by the possibility of making a grand emotional gesture within your family or close group of friends. You feel magnanimous today and you want them to take notice of what you are doing to help out in these tense times. But assisting others for your own selfish reasons will not turn out well. Make sure your intentions are pure and you will be recognized accordingly for your generous contribution.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Some of your best ideas can be communicated with great ease today and you don’t even have to make a big deal of it. You have a clear vision now, along with the necessary facts to back it up. As long as you don’t confuse the two you can speak the truth straight from your heart. Maintaining a logical perspective goes a long way toward assuring your success.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You might want to exaggerate your story today to bring more recognition to you or your favorite cause. However, if you let your feelings run the show, your plan may not work out as intended. You’re better off making a change in your tactics sooner than later. Rethink your strategy and tone down your rhetoric if necessary. A rational approach works wonders now.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Hold your arrows of thought as steady as you can and make sure that your eyes are solely on your target. Then and only then, release your intentions and let your dreams soar into space. No matter what happens, you have taken a positive step toward realizing your goals. Sharing your experience with someone you trust could turn your process into a memorable and magical moment.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Something that you are hiding from yourself or others may create problems today. You might be holding tension that stems from a feeling that you have kept private. However, there are no absolute rights or wrongs with respect to which emotions should be shared. Just remember that nothing can be gained if you’re not willing to take a chance.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your future is contained within your dreams and now it’s time to remember them more clearly than ever. But this isn’t about a new vision; it’s more likely about a familiar one that’s been lingering with you over the years. Dust off your old fantasies so you can explore them anew, even if your feelings about them are mixed. Don’t stiffen up with resistance or fear; instead, reclaim your flexibility and stretch into the uncertainty to see where your emotions lead.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

A widening gulf between your feelings and your actions may cause major complications today. You want to demonstrate your positive attitude to everyone at work, but you could come across as scattered if you take on too many tasks. Keep an open dialogue with your colleagues and listen closely to the feedback you receive. Their good advice can help you set healthy priorities, enabling you to better manage your time and resources.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, September 18

It’s difficult to grapple with big issues these days because there are no quick and easy answers to the questions we’re asking. The powerful square between revolutionary Uranus and transformational Pluto is exact tonight, pushing us into unknown territory. Although this game-changing alignment fades in and out until 2015, we now get a glimpse of the future. Emotions override grace when the Moon shifts into passionate Scorpio at 10:45 am EDT.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may be eager to disagree with someone today just to stir up a lively debate, even if you don’t really want to create lasting conflict. Nevertheless, you should be careful about inappropriately misdirecting your feelings or you could find yourself in a volatile situation before you know it. Being aware of the intensity of your reactions now can help to minimize unnecessary drama.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Although you might prefer taking a simpler approach, it now feels as if you’re heading out into a sea of complexity. Powerful emotions could rise to the surface today if someone confronts you about something you recently did. Defending yourself by justifying your actions could turn out to be a waste of energy, whether or not the accusation is true. An apology is in order if you are guilty, but just let it go if you’re not.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Even if you get up on the wrong side of the bed today, life grows brighter as the day wears on. You may need to deal with an obstacle that has been placed in your path by your boss or some other authority figure. However, you don’t have to confront the problem head-on yet; you can simply acknowledge it while dancing around its edges. You will be better equipped to handle the situation in a few days once the intensity settles down.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You could find yourself in the midst of a fierce emotional confrontation today that pulls you into deep waters. However, if you try to avoid the issue, you may inadvertently make matters worse. Pay attention to your intuition, for the shadows won’t hide the truth from you now. You might even discover a treasure in a difficult situation if you have the courage to stick with the process when it gets messy.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Intense interactions with a family member or close friend may open the floodgates of unexpressed emotions today. You might even sense that an unavoidable power struggle is on the way. You could agitate things even more now by revealing a surprise of your own. However, it’s wise to think before you speak or you will only complicate matters even more. Take the high road and just walk away from the drama with a smile.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your analytical mind is working overtime today as you furiously seek a simple fix to a complex problem. Part of your frustration stems from not being able to separate one situation from another; everything seems to be interrelated now. It’s pointless to keep going over the same details again and again. Things will begin to make sense when you accept that logic won’t bring you the solutions you’re hoping to find. Fire up your right brain and practice a little creative self-expression.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You might wish that the current relationship tensions would just go away now, but they won’t vanish until you face the issues that are bothering you. You may have to stand up to someone who is more powerful than you are; fortunately, you can hold your ground today as long as you act consistently with your feelings. Push through your anxiety and self-judgments; just show up and be true to yourself.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You can sense a subterranean current of feelings running deeper than any you have recently experienced. On one hand, this is quite exciting, since you’re attracted to the intensity and believe that you’re getting closer to discovering something very significant. On the other hand, you are fearful of losing yourself to this powerful flow. Nevertheless, it’s safe to let go once you know where you stand in your heart.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your anxiety motivates you to take care of unfinished business early in the day. Although you wish that you could get everything done, at some point you may need to postpone tasks that are still incomplete. Ironically, once you relinquish control you might even find enough time to relax for a bit. Thankfully, a quick escape can rejuvenate you with sufficient energy to come back to tie up the loose ends later on.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may feel pressured to do something with a group of people today, even if you would prefer to be by yourself. But don’t turn your penchant for privacy into a major conflict, or you’ll just end up exhausting yourself in the process. Save your energy for something more important; instead, relax and resign yourself to fulfilling your social obligations without a fuss. Your positive attitude could turn time with friends or acquaintances into a treat rather than a chore.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You could be at odds with anyone who is wielding authority today, even if he or she doesn’t deserve your negativity. Others may attempt to manipulate you, but you could provoke another set of issues if you fight back. Unfortunately, it’s tough to stop a conflict once a debate is started. Go ahead and make your stand now, but stay focused on the main issue so things don’t go awry.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You might not feel very efficient today, especially if you have menial chores to perform. It’s challenging to keep your thoughts focused on repetitive tasks; however, you could be very productive now, if you stretch your mind beyond the present moment. Give yourself permission to dream while you work; visualizing the future creates a more meaningful path for you to follow.

Daily Horoscopes for Sunday, September 2

We are ready to blast ahead today as we leave the previous emotional cycle in the past. The Moon stomps into spontaneous Aries at 1:37 am EDT, encouraging us to look ahead and engage new feelings rather than processing recent experiences. The Moon’s dynamic aspects to unrelenting Pluto and progressive Uranus push us forward. Nevertheless, we would still benefit from looking back over the previous month before impulsively jumping into the future.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

It’s a day of contrary cosmic messages as the Moon in your sign motivates you to take charge. Meanwhile, confusion from the past few days still lingers, holding you back and preventing you from swinging into action. It’s challenging to find a way to honor both sets of feelings. Go ahead and drive into new territory, but move slowly to allow time for your emotions to catch up with your intentions.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Your fantasies take on new colors now and the symbols are different from what they once were. Nevertheless you are not ready to let go of your familiar thoughts and feelings. Don’t be too hard on yourself; you don’t need to move any faster than what feels right. It isn’t necessary to justify your actions — or lack of them — to anyone at this time. Just trust the timing of the universe and accept that you are right on schedule.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You feel restless today, yet you still can play the role of a quiet observer who is carefully taking notes and considering your alternatives. Your inner strategist takes charge now, making you less concerned with the hectic pace of life. Cultivate this inner voice as it works to create the most efficient path possible through the stormy seas that rage around you.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You want to be seen in public now with the extroverted Aries Moon traveling through your 10th House of Status. Although your feelings are strong today, they may still be in dynamic conflict with the logic that you’ve wrapped around yourself for protection. Thankfully, you understand that the emotional tides are in constant flux. Ride out this wave and you’ll feel better soon enough.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Even if you are still a bit uncertain about what’s most important now, you’re probably feeling more optimistic than you did yesterday. The path is clearing and you have become, at least temporarily, aware of your destiny. You can grow frustrated if you believe you need to reach your goals right away. This is going to take time to unfold. Grant yourself the luxury of getting excited, but don’t strive for goals that are so unreachable that you set yourself up for disappointment.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You need to do the right thing, whatever the emotional cost. You might have recently retreated for a while to make sure that your feelings were real. Now that you have thoroughly analyzed the situation, you’re eager to set your plan into motion today, but this may not be as easy as you think. Go ahead, but remember you are in pursuit of long-term happiness and not immediate gratification.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’ve been playing out your situation with style and grace, even if you recently had to face a high level of uncertainty. However, you can actually improve the outcome of a tricky situation with a proper attitude today. Thankfully, you just might snatch success from the jaws of defeat if you work in partnership now. Remember that you are building foundations and you’ll have plenty of time for fun and games later on.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

There is a dark side to the power of Scorpio that adds to your mystique. But this isn’t an evil force; it’s merely a portion of reality that hides in the shadows. You’re aware that something is lurking unseen nearly all the time, but if you can see it now, you can deal with it. Watch for signs of suppressed possessiveness, resentment or jealousy. Facing difficult issues with fierce determination ensures that you will emerge stronger and brighter in the near future.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You are in love with life itself and are ready for a very special surprise. But something is in the way, preventing you from fully expressing your usual happy-go-lucky optimism. Don’t look at the current situation as an obstacle that stands between you and your happiness. Instead, be thankful that your search for meaning is slowing you down so that you can learn what you need to know from emotional interactions along the way.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You tend to restrain from expressing your first reactions, yet you may feel even more conservative today than usual. This is not about national politics; it’s your emotional politics you’re concerned with now and your personal relationships are strongly impacted by your caution. You would rather settle for a little less excitement, love, or money than gamble on the possibility of losing it all. Remember, nothing ventured; nothing gained. A small risk is better than none at all.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your interplanetary radio is playing private requests today, but the cosmos seems to be broadcasting tunes with conflicting messages. You may not be able to decide whether to follow your initial impulse to be with people or your current desire to be alone. Remember, whatever happens now, things will change. Staying flexible enables you to handle the contradictions with grace as you experience them.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You might feel that you’re not receiving enough emotional support now from those closest to you. You may get a bit discouraged today, but being down on yourself or others is not an effective use of your time. The best thing you can do is analyze the situation clearly, isolate the source of your negativity and share your feelings about it. Initiate a new pattern in your life; even if it doesn’t start off smoothly, stirring things up can bring about positive changes down the road.

August 27 – Daily Feast

August 27 – Daily Feast

Guilt imagines that every eye and every mind judges. But guilt can be false – a thing of the conscience that becomes so real it rules our common sense. We are aware that all guilt is not false – but for most people the fear of someone thinking we are guilty is reason enough. What we do not realize is that it is our own thinking, our own emotion and fear that keep us weaving and dodging. A person trying to lose a few pounds feels guilty if someone see him eating. A prudent spender feels the weight of spending a dollar – and so goes the guilt which is not guilt at all but fear. From one fear comes a thousand things to get rid of – and false guilt should be the first.

~ Will you sit idly by, supinely awaiting complete and abject submission, or will you die fighting? ~

PUSHMATAHA – SHAWNEE

‘A Cherokee Feast of Days, Volume II’ by Joyce Sequichie Hifler

Current Moon Phase for August 24: First Quarter

First Quarter Moon

(waxing/52% illumination)

The Moon is in the zodiac sign Scorpio

Emotions begin to stir coupled with recognizing that the new beginnings you are making must also increase personal security to be worthwhile over the long haul. This is a time when it’s appropriate to get in touch with your gut instincts and begin to guide your life more deliberately, with an awareness of using your “sixth sense” as well as your enthusiasm. Obstacles may emerge that require you to reevaluate how to better integrate yourself into your immediate environment.

August 22 – Daily Feast

Every time we think we make a mental picture. The more we look at the picture on the motion picture screen of our minds, the more real it becomes. We forget that it is imaginary, but our emotions pick up on what the mind has seen and the image causes delight, or tears, or even anger. Our emotions manipulate us and cause us to do things we would never do under different circumstances. When we give in, these mental suggestions cause us pain, jealousy, and even anger. If our mental vision tells us we have been wronged, anger causes us to react foolishly. In such cases, we tend to go on the warpath, not for any commonsense reason, but because we fed ourselves the wrong mental pictures.

~ We do not take up the warpath without a just cause and honest purpose. ~

PUSHMATAHA

‘A Cherokee Feast of Days’, by Joyce Sequichie Hifler

Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, August 16

We know what we want today, yet something is holding us back. Still, we might not be willing to limit our desires by adhering to socially acceptable norms. Romantic Venus dynamically squares unconventional Uranus, zapping us with unusual feelings. Even the heart-centered Leo Moon trines shocking Uranus, prompting us to release pent up emotional stress suddenly, like lightning during a storm. Thankfully, the energy settles down later in the day.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You’re fairly confident that you’ll reach your destination, but you have trouble verbalizing your needs today. Unfortunately, your goals may be so far out of the box now that you cannot talk about them. Even still, you might attempt to express your feelings anyhow, only to discover what you want changes as the day goes on. Go ahead and open your heart, but remain flexible and be ready for a surprise.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You don’t like being caught off guard, but today you may have to respond quickly to new feelings that arise quite suddenly. You won’t be able to blame anyone else now, as this is probably a result of your own urges that erupt from the hidden depths of your unconscious mind. Don’t withdraw; take every opportunity to break through whatever you have been avoiding. Facing your fears is the best way to overcome them.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You’re usually willing to explore pleasurable distractions, but it’s not that easy today. Other people have their expectations, but you might be disinterested in their goals now. If you do go along with someone’s unusual request, you’ll likely regret it later. Nevertheless, you don’t want to let down a friend or associate. Do what is required, but don’t be surprised if you get restless during the day and just want to walk away from it all.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Innovative ideas pop up unexpectedly today, thrilling you with the possibilities. However, this isn’t a great time to let these desires run your life. In fact, it’s wise to filter your thoughts so you don’t get pulled off track. The challenge is in discerning which dreams are worth pursuing. Remember, you can think about all your options without having to act on every one.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may become upset if a co-worker ruins your fun today, but keep in mind that no one is purposefully trying to make your life difficult. To the contrary, others are more likely to assist you along your road to emotional satisfaction if you are doing your fair share. Although you might not get your way now, being a team player greatly increases your chances for fulfillment and enjoyment.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Someone may step into your world unexpectedly today with an intense emotional outburst that doesn’t fit into your idea of appropriate behavior. Fortunately, you are magnanimous enough to incorporate this unsettling experience, but you need to make a conscious decision to be compassionate rather than critical. A great adventure can be yours if you accept the fact that you cannot control all the facets of your life all the time.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Forget about sticking to your normal routine today since your key planet Venus is buzzed by high-strung Uranus. You may even feel as if you’re going crazy, but rest assured it’s just that the energy is a bit unstable now. Let restrictive structures and unhealthy assumptions fall away without resistance. Resume your regularly scheduled activities once the dust settles.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You may experience free-floating anxiety today as you’re feeling a combination of excitement and annoyance. Although others could seem overly stubborn, you might actually be the one most responsible for holding yourself back. Even if you feel trapped by the current circumstances, don’t focus on your limitations. Instead, allow your feelings to take you wherever they go without judging them. You can easily find your way back to a more productive place later on.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Unpredictable Uranus rattles magnetic Venus today while she visits your 8th House of Intimacy. If your pocketbook isn’t directly affected now, your love life might be the next thing in line. Don’t give anyone else power over you — either emotionally or financially — as your current need for immediate gratification may feel more important than how much cash you have in your checking account. Be willing to take a risk as long as you carefully consider the consequences first.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Someone may jump to the wrong conclusion about your desires, especially if you aren’t forthcoming with what you want now. In other words, what you don’t say today can be even more important than what you do say. Step outside of your comfort zone and speak your piece. No matter how irrational your feelings are, it’s still better if they’re out in the open.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your attachment to objects of beauty might get you into trouble today, whether you are attracted to a piece of art or another person. Although your desires aren’t necessarily physical, they could manifest that way now. Ultimately, you’re more in love with an idea than with anything in reality. Understanding this can help reduce your frustration, especially if you are less than satisfied with what you receive.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your behavior seems highly erratic now, making it difficult for anyone to trust you. However, your emotions are very close to the surface and your sudden mood shifts are quickly reflected in transparent mannerisms. It’s not necessary to be in total control today. Let others know that you are moving through some rough waters and could use their support. Ask and you just might receive more than you expect.

The Ethics Of Empathy

The Ethics Of Empathy

Author: Cael SpiritHawk

Some months ago, a few of the members of my Grove expressed concerns over the ethics of using empathy, in various circumstances, to “read” other people’s emotional state. We ended up holding a discussion night about it, and several of our members shared their thoughts on the matter. I wrote down my opinion and posted it in the “Philosophy” section on the forums at my Grove website at http://www.shadowgrove.com/, and recently I found it again and thought I would share it here. I’ve edited it slightly, but what follows is essentially the same post I made at the time.

People have different levels of perception in all of their senses; one person may hear poorly and see very well, another may do both poorly, and another may hear with extreme acuity and be completely unable to see. No one can make any assumptions about the sensory perceptiveness of any other random person on the street. If you’re sitting in a Starbuck’s, having a quiet conversation with your friend, you can guess that the people at the table on the other side of the shop cannot hear you, but you have no way to actually know. You might think that the barrista cannot see the sketches you’re drawing to explain something to your friend, but you don’t know for sure; she might.

Walk through a busy place some time: an airport, a mall, a supermarket. Pay attention to what you see and hear. You can hear people talking, you can see people gesturing to one another, and you can see the expressions on their faces.

The sounds of words are carried to you by the energy of compression waves in the atmosphere. The image of a person’s hands and face are carried by electromagnetic energy (light) .

Back to the coffee shop. Pretend you are sitting across the room from the pair of friends who are talking and sketching. You’re reading a book, so you’re not looking at them. But one of them raises her voice, and it sounds to you as if she’s frustrated. You can’t hear the words yet, but her tone is clear; she’s upset. Then her friend stands up, and he begins shouting, and this time you can hear the words. He tells her that it’s not that he doesn’t understand her, it’s that he does, but he thinks she’s wrong. He holds up the paper they’ve been sketching on, and you glance at it and see what they’ve been drawing.

Now, arguably none of this is your business, because you have not been invited to participate. But the energy (sound and light) that they have been putting out has come to you, and it is in every creature’s nature to accept and act upon received information. So you have perceived (because of her tone) a general state of frustration from the girl. You have perceived more precisely (because of his tone and actual words) that her friend believes she is wrong in her position. And you have perceived (by seeing it directly) that what they are talking about seems to be the layout of an advertising flyer that perhaps they’re working on.

Three levels of perception: General, specific, and precise; gained from three types of passive observation – tonal, verbal, and visual.

Now you know something about those two people that you did not know before. Have you been unethical? Not yet. Because you have received only that which they have given freely in your presence. If you took that knowledge and decided to use it in an unethical way, then you have crossed a line. If you moved to a different seat to be able to listen better, would that be unethical? Probably.

But suppose you reached the conclusion that the man is so agitated that he might become violent. Would it be unethical for you to gather your things and leave, based solely on what you’ve seen? Not at all – it would be prudent.

So it is with empathy. Just as words are carried outward through sound energy, and facial expressions are carried outward through electromagnetic energy, emotions are carried outward by the energy of Spirit. Just as there are people who see well and people who see poorly, there are people who are very perceptive of emotional energy and there are people who perceive it poorly, if at all.

When a person is feeling a strong emotion, their spiritual energy is broadcasting that emotion to everyone in their proximity, just as the look on their face is broadcasting that emotion. If they’re laughing or crying or shouting, the emotion is carried by sound as well.

People can learn to hide their facial expressions and contain their verbal expressions. Likewise, they can learn to control the emotional energy they are sending out on the spiritual plane. But most people do none of these.

So where are the ethics lines drawn with perceiving this spiritual energy of emotion (a perceptiveness we call empathy)? They’re more obvious than many people would believe: they’re drawn in the same places that they’re drawn for any other sense.

If a person is shouting, you cannot help but hear. If a person is smiling, you cannot help but see. If a person is broadcasting emotion, and you feel it, you have not violated their privacy, because as an empathic-perceptive, you cannot help but feel what they feel.

The boundaries come in two places: When you try to pry, and when you try to use the information you receive in a harmful way.

Just as it’s wrong to eavesdrop on someone’s phone conversations (because you’re listening to something that has not been freely offered in your presence), and just as it’s wrong to peer between someone’s bedroom blinds at night (because they’ve put the blinds down for a reason), it is wrong to use empathy to try to ferret out information that a person is not offering up freely.

It’s wrong to pretend to know someone, in order to get them to trust you, because you’ve overheard their name in a conversation. It’s wrong to take down a stranger’s phone number that you’ve seen as they write it down for a friend. Likewise it’s wrong to use the knowledge that you’ve obtained through empathy to give yourself an advantage over the person you got it from.

If a person has given you permission to use your empathy, of course, the rules all change. Empathy can be a powerful therapeutic tool, because the emotions that a person is putting out empathically may be different from the emotions he or she thinks are there. A trauma from the past, a phobia, a deep-rooted anxiety, all of these can come out on the empathic plane, while a person feels uncontrollably giddy but can’t explain why.

Empathy is a tool, just like hearing, sight, and even our hands are a tool. It’s not the possession of a tool that is ethical or unethical; it’s the way we use it. It can be used in helpful or harmful ways, just as any tool can.

If we remember that we are given gifts to allow us to better take care of each other, it’s much less likely that we will violate ethical boundaries. If you are a person who is gifted with strong empathy, use it. You were given it for a reason. But use it in the way you would use any other tool; with care, and with forethought, and with a respect for the people that you are affecting. Listen with it for things that are a danger, so that you may avoid them, and listen with it for people who are in need, so that you may be available to help them when they are ready for it and open to it.

It’s very difficult to violate ethical boundaries when your guidelines are respect for others and respect for yourself.

You would not gouge out an eye for fear of seeing someone’s tears; why would you reject the empathy that might help you understand the reason for those tears, so that you might help to solve it?

The Living Rede

A lifetime of learning I’ve set to these pages, Some learned from fools, and some learned from sages.

This tome contains musings: some wisdom, some rant. Some will find truth here, some won’t and some can’t.

If your eyes fall upon this page, it’s meant for you, For the Universe offers what you’re meant to do.

The Secret of Magic quite often astounds: There isn’t a Secret! Just look all around!

The Trees teach you lessons – the Willow that bends. The challenge for you: learn the message it sends.

By Example and Symbol the Universe speaks. It may happen quickly or take many weeks.

Be aware what you notice – it needs your attention If you’re going to hear what it’s trying to mention.

For the Universe rarely speaks loudly and clearly, But it speaks all the time if you listen sincerely.

You’re here for a reason – to heal, teach and learn. The better you listen, the more growth you’ll earn.

The goal, it would seem, is reunion with Spirit. Learn lessons while here, don’t run from, don’t fear it.

Though we travel our own paths, our lives interlace. We must all grow together – this isn’t a race.

So be mindful of others, and help when you can, A bird, tree or pebble, a woman or man.

Material, Ether and Astral involved, Work them correctly, your problems be solved.

Magic is simple, has rules, like Mundane, Push or pull with your Heart and direct with your Brain.

The Emotions you raise will determine its power. The more you project, that much sooner its hour.

The Thoughts that you hold in your mind as you cast Tell the power its job – where to go and its task.

If your thoughts falter or change while you work, Your focus is lessened – your power will fork.

Dual aspects to work with, the God and the Goddess, Called Yang and called Yin – the names matter not, honest!

Yang feels like anger – you feel in your chest. It jumps to the hand and for quick work is best.

Yin is much softer – it’s felt at the womb. The power of Love and the peace of a tomb.

Yang is aggressive – Male “Get It Done Now!” If you’re in a hurry, Yang does it, and how!

Yin is more subtle, for delicate tasks. If you’re working with love, it’s the one you should ask.

All genders have both, their intensities varied, And strong you will be with both energies married.

Be Humble and True, though, whatever your power. Sometimes you’re the lightning, sometimes you’re The Tower.

The Cards hold no magic, the Runes have no secret That’s not found within you – if only you’ll seek it.

Negative or Positive? Sometimes you must give. The Antelope dies so the Lion may live.

Remember, when tragedy breaks down your door: Whatever you lose, you will gain so much more.

I know it sounds hard, when loss brings pain and sorrow, But you will know joy again – next year, or tomorrow.

One thing that I’ve found, and I hope you will heed: Ask not what you want from life. Ask what you need.

Ask what you want and it may come to you, But ask what you need: What you came here to do.

This far through my Rede you have stayed and have read. Down paths much like mine you are likely to tread.

I welcome you, joyful, a companion to walk, For someone to listen to, someone to talk.

These pages are yours to accept or critique. May your road straight to Spirit unfold at your feet.

Stay if you will, here, or leave if you must. Blessed Be, One and All. Perfect Love. Perfect Trust.

– Brian Gallagher – author of this rede

Your Horoscopes for August 1, Lammas

Sudden bursts of awareness crash into our consciousness as today’s ingenious Aquarius Full Moon aligns with quicksilver Mercury and electric Uranus. The Moon’s entry into humanitarian Aquarius at 5:55 am EDT shifts our focus from personal issues toward more global realms. Our emotions continue to grow stronger until the Full Moon at 11:27 pm. Although we want to be connected with a larger group, we must stay detached enough to remain unique.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your energy may run out of control today as your creativity blossoms. The Aquarius Full Moon activates the radiant Leo Sun in your 5th House of Self-Expression, making you even more spontaneous than usual. On the surface, all is well, but there could be more going on than meets the eye. Watch your step; exercising sensible caution now is more than just good advice to follow.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You would like your emotions to settle down, yet the Aquarius Full Moon occurs in your 10th House of Career, pulling you back into a familiar pattern at work today. You may grow anxious when you learn that someone didn’t tell you everything; now you want full disclosure before you go on. Uncovering all the details could be challenging at first, but everyone will feel better once the facts are finally out in the open.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Today’s Aquarius Full Moon falls in your 9th House of Big Ideas, broadening your mental horizons. Unfortunately, this wider perspective can be confusing because you may pick up extra noise along with the important data you need to know. Use whatever psychological or spiritual tools you have to keep a fix on reality, since you’re going to receive some mixed signals from others along the way. Above all, keep your feet on the ground.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You are deeply connected to lunar rhythms and can’t help but be moved by the intensity of today’s Aquarius Full Moon that brightens your 8th House of Intimacy. Let the emotional tide surge with its swells of unexpected power, but remember that you don’t have to express every passing mood. If you must say something now, do it and then let go. Attachment to your desires adds complexity to an otherwise beautifully simple relationship.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

The Aquarius Full Moon is especially powerful for you Lions, illuminating your 7th House of Relationships. Your emotions are intensified by a partner or close friend who is going through a dramatic change. As tough as it may be today, stay connected while still allowing everyone involved plenty of room to feel independent. Life will settle back down in the days ahead.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You are motivated to find new meaning for your life, yet your outer world may seem uninspired in comparison to what’s happening within your subconscious mind now. However, you’re not required to share anything that doesn’t increase your efficiency with the Aquarius Full Moon highlighting your 6th House of Self-Improvement. You will be happier and healthier if you feel everything fully today, even if you keep your revelations to yourself.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Life may be quite pleasant today with an edge of excitement to make things more interesting. However, your outer reactions might be somewhat subdued. Fortunately, good vibrations are buzzing all around you as the Aquarius Full Moon lights up your 5th House of Love and Creativity with spontaneous fireworks. Enjoy the show while you can without worrying too much about the future.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Today’s Aquarius Full Moon is buried in your 4th House of Roots, but it’s not a smart idea to suppress your emotions. It’s even more important to pay attention to your feelings if your head is telling you one thing and your heart is saying something else. Slipping into denial is neither healthy nor productive. Instead, reconsider your priorities and deal with the underlying issues rather than the symptoms for enduring results.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The Aquarius Full Moon falls in your 3rd House of Communications, inspiring you to write a letter or make a phone call that you were previously avoiding. Do it right away since what you do today will have the impact you desire. But even if you have good intentions, your intensity can be overwhelming. Be patient and allow everyone enough time to assimilate your words before changing the subject.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are highly productive when you set your mind to a specific goal. However, you could physically exhaust yourself if you aren’t careful now, because you’re riding a surge of energy that continues to build over the days ahead. The Aquarius Full Moon’s presence in your 2nd House of Personal Resources enables you to keep yourself grounded. Make time to care for your body and don’t short yourself on sleep. Being at your physical best improves your chances to accomplish your lofty ambitions.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The thoughts that are flowing in your subconscious are lifted to a high tide level by the brilliant Aquarius Full Moon. Your imagination floods into every aspect of your waking life today. Normally, the Moon works in the realm of dreams, but you cannot contain it now. Embracing the emotional storms can clear the air of stagnant feelings and allow relationships to flourish.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your heightened sense of urgency may stem from unrealistic fears today as the Aquarius Full Moon illuminates your 12th House of Secrets. Although you might feel as if time is running out, it could just be an illusion. Nevertheless, there is still work to do and you want to finish as much as possible. Close your eyes and take several deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and return to the task at hand. Doing this simple relaxation exercise often throughout the day helps you accomplish more than you thought possible.

The Current Moon Phase for July 26th – First Quarter Moon

First Quarter Moon

(waxing/90-135 degrees)

Daily Horoscopes for Sunday July 8th

It’s challenging to separate our own emotions from those we pick up from our environment as the compassionate Pisces Moon softens the boundaries between us and others. Fortunately, a magical Mercury-Saturn quintile empowers us to transform our idealistic thoughts into concrete reality. But meanwhile, an anxious quincunx between assertive Mars and directionless Neptune makes it tough to know how pushy we need to be to manifest our dreams.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You could feel as if you’ve gone too far today and cannot figure out how to shift into reverse. Although backing up seems impossible, continuing forward isn’t a good idea either. Thankfully, you can turn things around, but it will take some creative thinking on your part. Bending the rules in your favor may not be enough; you might have to reconsider your goal, change direction and start over again. Setting a different course gives you a new lease on life.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You may feel as if you’re being emotionally blackmailed today and you might not want to deal with the situation. You would rather kick back and enjoy yourself instead of engaging in the drama. Nevertheless, you can effectively establish limits around your involvement once you are pushed too far. Being clear about your resistance right from the start will make life easier for everyone later on.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Your friends and family might grow frustrated with you today if you don’t seem to be worried about the same things that are bothering them. As far as you can tell, a current situation may pose temporary difficulties, but should iron itself out without your direct intervention. You’re willing to wait and see what happens even if others are not. Visualizing your future in a positive light can be a powerful tool; nevertheless, you’ll still have a better chance of success if you get more involved now, not later.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You can feel the stress building around you and wish you could do something to make it go away. However, it may be obvious that others don’t want you meddling in their affairs at this time. It’s challenging to withdraw because you honestly believe that your nurturing love could make a positive difference. Don’t project your feelings of personal rejection on to anyone else; just allow those you love the emotional space they need. Simply letting them know that you care is enough for now.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may have a plan for the day, but events that are beyond your control put your original goals out of reach. You don’t like it if someone assumes he or she knows what’s best for you. However, struggling to stick to your initial agenda only adds to your frustration. Instead, follow the good advice you receive. You can always take back the reins later when you’re ready to be in charge once again.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your friends lean on you because they trust your logical approach to a problem. However, the harder you try to think clearly now, the more spacey you feel. Although you have a practical handle on reality, you get confused today when people question your responses. Stop trying to live up to everyone else’s expectations by having all the answers. Listen to the compassionate Pisces Moon visiting your 7th House of Companions by simply communing with others in the space of dreams.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may be ready to give up because your current tactics aren’t working and you don’t seem to be able to control the actions of your friends with your charm. Unfortunately, they are resisting your pressure and aren’t doing as you wish. Instead of pushing harder today, stand back and give everyone additional room to breathe and make decisions on their own. Paradoxically, your voluntary retreat improves your chances of getting what you want.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You may feel frustrated because your key planet Mars is presently engaging in a struggle with elusive Neptune. Your personal dilemma will remain unsolvable as long as you are fighting with an unknown enemy. However, you have the power to shift your current paradigm from conflict to cooperation. Once you step outside of your competitive frame of mind, everyone can come out a winner.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You have big ideas about what you want to do, but there seems to be so many potential obstacles today that you may give up before you even start your journey. If you’re considering the pursuit of an educational opportunity, wait to make your final decision until your current negativity passes. There’s no reason to force the issue right away. You will have a much clearer idea of what’s ahead in the next few days if you take the time to explore all your options now.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s challenging to organize your life this weekend, and your current lack of progress on a project could make you feel grumpy. Nevertheless, resist the temptation to take out your frustration on others or your attitude could compound your current problems. Work smarter now, not harder, or you’ll exhaust yourself trying to finish what you started. Exercising a little common sense is enough to put you back on track.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your friends and family may get on your nerves today as they tell you exactly what they expect from you. Unfortunately, the more you resist, the bolder they grow. Still, you’re not ready to give in to unreasonable demands. Announcing your intention to remain non-committal until after the weekend could be enough to remove the immediate pressure and give you time to decide your next move.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your moodiness may be more annoying to others than you realize. You might not understand why someone is giving you the cold shoulder today until you realize that your current fussiness could be perceived as negativity. Instead of aiming at perfection, try softening your approach now. A temporary lack of focus won’t jeopardize your big plans for the future. Thankfully, your true motives will shine through if you let go of your fear of failure.

Your Daily Love & Romance Horoscopes for June 1

Aries

As the Moon leaves your relationship sector he leaves you with a strong intuitive and emotional link to the past, that you need to hold onto. With Saturn in his final weeks in retrograde motion in your relationship sector this leaves you with an emotional link to things you may have swept under the carpet in the past.

Taurus

The Moon returns for his monthly visit to your relationship sector today, evoking your emotional and intuitive responses. The Moon wouldn’t be doing his job if this didn’t push some buttons and evoke some emotional responses, giving you a chance to make sense of and process what’s been and to nudge things in the right direction moving forward.

Gemini

As the Moon wraps up his monthly visit he leaves you with an intuitive read on your heart and on a pervasive sense of romantic nostalgia, that won’t be here when he returns next month. Right now the doors to the past and to second chances are wide open on the romantic front, but only for a few more weeks.

Cancer

Just when you need it most, with some tension starting to creep into your relationships, the Moon makes a timely return to your romantic sector, giving you a chance to tap back into your heart and some more romantic energy. This gives you a chance to put things into perspective and to hear what your heart is trying to tell you.

Leo

While you’re just 3 days away from a lunar eclipse in your romantic sector, that has the power to create some unexpected developments, there are telltale signs or road markers and there won’t be any. This is a lunar eclipse that will take you by surprise and the only way you can prepare is to take your hands off the wheel, putting your faith in the love gods.

Virgo

With Neptune due to turn retrograde in your relationship sector next week and Chiron the week after, the door to the past and to second chances is about to open. As the Moon makes his last visit to your communication sector before then, this gives you a chance to open the communication lines and to connect in an authentic way.

Libra

While some short term relationship pressure that the Moon evoked yesterday is most likely easing back, looking more like a false alarm, don’t dismiss this too quickly, for it held some valid wake up calls. Find a balance between not sweating the small stuff and not sticking your head in the sand.

Scorpio

You’ll find it a lot easier now to find the right work/life balance in order to keep the professional momentum going and give your personal life, especially your relationships the attention it needs. But that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to work at it, taking responsibility for ensuring you have the right balance and boundaries.

Sagittarius

It’s not much help when later down the track you tell yourself that you should have trusted your instincts or you should have had the confidence to speak up, especially when today is the day you’re most likely to look back on with regret if you don’t follow your hunches. It’s when you challenge your excuses that you’re more likely to find yourself in the right place at the right time.

Capricorn

You’ve had a real test over the last few days, when it comes to balancing your personal and professional lives. It matters less how well you managed this and more that you’re aware of what did or didn’t work. For where you’re going having the right balance and boundaries will not only be important, but increasingly harder to maintain.

Aquarius

Venus, planet of love and romance has been in your romantic sector for nearly 2 months, yet even after all this time the romantic advantages still haven’t peaked and the journey has barely begun. You’re in a romantic phase that will take until mid 2013 to fully play out, with a need to be in this for the long haul.

Pisces

When Mars first returned to your relationship sector last November, for what is normally a 6 week visit, it was with the intention of shaking things up. That stage you’ve been through and it’s now more about rebuilding your relationships for the future or if single to let go of the past, ready to move on.

Daily OM for March 28th – Seeing Inside

Seeing Inside
Sight Versus Vision

Vision comes from within and shows us how to navigate the realms of thought, feeling, and emotion.

Sight is the ability to see the physical world while vision is the gift of seeing beyond it. Sight enables us to take the physical world in so we can participate in it with knowledge. It brings us pleasure through our eyes, which perceive the colors and shapes of all the myriad expressions of nature and human beings. It helps us feel in control, allowing us to see what is coming toward us, which way we are going, and exactly where we are standing at a given moment. We are able to read signs and books, navigate the interiors of buildings with ease, sense and perceive how a person is feeling by the expressions that cross her face.

As anyone who has lost their eyesight can tell you, though, there are things that are clearer when you cannot see the world through your eyes. One of the reasons many meditation instructors advise sitting with the eyes closed is because we automatically become more in touch with our inner world when we are not distracted by the outer world. It is in this state that vision becomes our mode of seeing. Vision comes from within and shows us how to navigate the realms of thought, feeling, and emotion. It enables us to see things that aren’t yet manifested in the world of form, and it also connects us to that part of ourselves that exists separately from the world of form.

As we age, even those of us with perfect eyesight will generally lose some of our acuity, but this loss is usually replaced with inner vision. This is the time of life when we are meant to turn inside and take what are sometimes the very first steps of a journey that cannot be traced on a map. We call upon intuition and feel our way along a path that ultimately carries us beyond the realm we can see with our eyes and into the land of spirit.

Dark Night of the Soul

Dark Night of the Soul

Author: caity

Often, sinking as low as I can sink comforts me. Hitting the bottom. If I can feel the floor, then at least I know that’s as low as I’ll ever go, and I do not have to fear falling down or sinking any deeper than this. It’s a sobering, numbing, and leveling feeling. I have found myself curled up in fetal position upon the black depths of the ocean floor more than a few times. I am safe there, because I know that I can go no lower. I can sleep there, because I am not filled with hopes or expectations to distract me or fill my mind with the fear of not attaining them. My nerves can rest, because once living in the state of my fear and dread confirmed, I have nothing to fear any longer.

Some have said that I needed medication or therapy for depression at these times. I used to try both until I realized that, despite what society believes, my soul needed these experiences. Now, I gladly choose depression, if that is the direction my heart is taking at a given time. When it wants to come back to me, I open the door, and say, “Welcome back, old friend. Come in, and sit with me. Teach me something new.” For one who walks in the dark gains excellent night vision, and can navigate through darkness much more easily than one who only goes out in daylight. So I’ll let the sad or dark times tether me down to the floor for at least a little while. If I can make it to the floor without drowning, then I shall never drown.

The dark night of the soul must come upon all of us, especially those of us who are deeply aware of our own spiritual quests. For how can we live in true, natural balance if we have not had our own personal struggles, sufferings, and sorrows? If we are never faced with total aloneness or even neglect, how and when will we ever learn to introspect and look solely to our own selves (or Higher Self) for comfort, love, wisdom, and guidance?

I am grateful for the era of the dark night in my life, for it was in this time that I discovered Wicca. Without the dark night of the soul, I would have never wanted to look deeper. Without the dark night, I may never have felt the need to seek for answers. Without my aloneness, I would have had others to look to, and would have never had to face myself, to look to my own heart, and learn to introspect and find my true spirit. My true face would not have shown its light to guide me through. And I’d still be living on the surface, trying desperately to block out fear of the unknown depths of the ocean, never finding my true face at the floor of my spirit, nor discovering my own capabilities and potential.

The dark night of the soul taught me how to hold and soothe my own self. And perhaps most significantly, the dark experiences of my past made me who I am today. Truly, I would not be half the person I have become if it was not for my wounds and sorrows. This realization has taught me to believe that every experience, even what we perceive as the darkest or most negative, is actually yet another learning experience, an experiment of our existence, and something through which we can gain knowledge and wisdom. There is truly no such thing as objective negativity; all is subjective.

In the Christian theology, and indeed within our mainstream society, we must never transgress over into darkness, for darkness is always “evil.” But to me, and to most practitioners of Earth-based spirituality, darkness is just as necessary as light, and is a healthy, natural, and educational component of the human experience. As well, balance and moderation are the keys to enlightenment. The dark is there to balance the light, not necessarily to be at war with it, thus the dark itself can still bring about enlightenment. And besides, in every great tale of mythology or lore, the great hero’s journey always includes descending into the underworld. It is my belief that we all must descend into our own underworld in order to get the most out of our journey here. I truly believe that darkness and pain is not an evil monster or devil to be feared, but instead a force that has an alternate method of helping us, of blessing us, and of teaching us some of life’s most important lessons.

And strangely, I have even found now, after my journey through deeper waters, that even though I have come out and into bright light again, and all is fairly well in my life, I somehow still seek aloneness. I somehow still wish to retreat to myself, to remember my sorrows, and to find my bed in darkness. I want to curl up in the fetal position on the lowest, most numbing floor of my pain, deep down where I am entirely by myself, just to feel and remember the sensations of sadness. Sadness is a universally shared aspect of existence and humanity, thus I will embrace it as a testament to my aliveness. And when I see it this way, it actually feels good to me when I hit rock bottom. It’s comforting to level myself with the lowest of sorrows and wallow in them for a while. It is part of the natural range of human emotions, part of the human experience. It even gives me a strangely sickening feeling, which somehow paradoxically alleviates my fears by confirming them.

I once read that to be a Witch is to be alone. Indeed, my loneliest times were when I was most attracted to the idea of being a Witch, and the most involved in seeking my own spirituality through Wicca. I find Wicca and Paganism so refreshing for their non-resistance to the range in human emotions, including the ones that may not feel as “good, ” with the understanding that aliveness and life itself is to be embraced and felt with the senses, and for their stressing of natural objective balance over subjective human judgment. A Witch understands that experiences are not objectively “good” or “bad, ” but depend upon one’s perspective. Both sides of all dualities (light and dark, yin and yang, male and female) are equal and necessary, not to be fought against one another nor made into a “versus.” I could not agree with this philosophy more.

In conclusion, I believe that dualities can, do, and must coexist… and that we can learn to not only deal with, but also be comfortable with and even benefit from both sides of every coin, both ends of any spectrum. So while although the light is usually seen as what’s “good, ” this does not make darkness “bad” by default; darkness is simply a necessary part of one’s spiritual journey, a balancer to the light. Like everything, it can be used for positive growth and for drawing inner-strength and spiritual enlightenment in an entirely new, different, and challenging way.

This is what the dark night of the soul has taught me… because I did not fight it, I let it in, and I let it teach me. What has the dark night of your soul taught you?

Daily OM for March 4th – Layers of Feeling

Layers of Feeling
Coping with Passive Aggression

Passive aggression is most often wielded by those who feel powerless and want to avoid their own true feelings.

Many people are taught from a young age to suppress feelings commonly regarded as negative, such as anger, resentment, fear, and sorrow. Those who cannot or will not express these emotions tend to engage in passive-aggressive behaviors that provide them with a means of redirecting their feelings. Passive aggression can take many forms: People who feel guilty saying “no” may continually break their promises because they couldn’t say no when they meant it. Others will substitute snide praise for a slur to distance themselves from the intense emotions they feel. More often than not, such behavior is a cry for help uttered by those in need of compassion and gentle guidance.

When we recognize passive-aggressive patterns in the behavior of others, we should never allow ourselves to be drawn into a struggle for power. Passive aggression is most often wielded by those who feel powerless in the face of what they perceive as negative emotions because they hope to avoid confronting their true feelings. They feel they are in control because they do not display overt emotion and often cannot understand how they have alienated their peers. If someone close to us shows signs of frustration or annoyance but claims nothing is amiss, we can point out that their tone of voice or gestures are communicating a different message and invite them to confide in us. When we feel slighted by a backhanded compliment, it is important that we calmly explain how the jibe made us feel and why. And when an individual continually breaks their promises, we can help them understand that they are free to say no if they are unwilling to be of service.

As you learn to detect passive aggression, you may be surprised to see a hint of it in yourself. Coping with the natural human tendency to veil intense emotions can be as simple as reminding yourself that expressing your true feelings is healthy. The emotions typically regarded as negative will frequently be those that inspire you to change yourself and your life for the better, whereas passive-aggressive behavior is a means of avoiding change. When you deal constructively with your feelings, you can put them behind you and move forward unencumbered by unexplored emotion.

Daily Horoscopes for Friday, February 24th

We have run out of patience and are no longer willing to engage in endless debate trying to find a common solution to a problem. Instead, today’s enterprising Aries Moon encourages us to solve a current dilemma by addressing our own needs first. This enlightened self-interest can loosen a logjam and get the energy flowing again. However, unforeseen consequences may create an emotional drama when the Moon squares ruthless Pluto later in the day.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You should be accustomed to the repetitive waves of energy that periodically surge through your life these days. But the Moon’s current visit to your sign is another reminder of the big changes ahead. You are quite excitable today and are easily overwhelmed by your emotions. Opening your heart to a friend will probably make you feel uncomfortable at first, but it could ultimately deepen your relationship.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Social commitments have piled up enough to make you realize that you don’t have much time to spare. You may need to clarify your boundaries by saying no if you’ve spread yourself too thin. But it isn’t that you want to be unsociable; it’s simply that you have too much on your plate. Avoiding unproductive distractions makes sense now, even if you are feeling restless; concentrate on your job and you’ll be through this crunch sooner than you expect.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You want others to believe that you’re eagerly embracing the future. You may pretend that all is well today, but you’re afraid of being judged if you hold on to the past. Although you’re usually pretty good at steering clear of unnecessary emotional drama, your impulsive actions could inadvertently stir up an uncomfortable level of intensity now. Being honest about your fears is the first step to healing your insecurities.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You were recently swimming in the waters of your own emotions, but now it seems as if you’re being pulled onto dry land. Instead of just experiencing your feelings, it’s time to act on them. Unfortunately, your actions could be constrained by memories of a past rejection that arises when you swing into motion. Take time to honor your past before pushing through the resistance. No matter what happens, you will feel positive about taking a chance and revealing what you want.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You feel a surge of confidence as the Moon visits your extroverted 9th House of Big Ideas. The fiery Aries Moon provides you with enough momentum to make new plans for the future, even if you haven’t yet processed what’s happening in the present moment. Fortunately, you don’t have to figure out everything all at once; release your current concerns gradually while time works its own magic.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may be frustrated with your lack of productivity today because you’re itching for new experiences, even if you’re constrained by promises you made in a relationship. Nevertheless, something happens that reawakens your desires and concentrates your attention on the excitement of living. However, you cannot just let go of your commitments. Be wise and observe your dilemma without taking action; it’s best to make changes on another day rather than turning your life upside down now.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

The Moon’s current visit to your 7th House of Relationships is a reminder of how difficult it is to be completely yourself when someone else is part of your life. Unfortunately, it’s challenging to define the line between love and codependency, especially because making other people happy comes so naturally to you. Although fulfilling your own needs might create stress, it also makes you a better partner in the long run.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You are walking close to an emotional edge today, but it’s best to keep your feelings to yourself. Your patience has run out and you are almost ready to do something that you’ll probably regret. It’s your choice; you don’t have to do it. There may be too much at stake to take an unnecessary risk now, so try working off your anxiety through exercise or hard work. You’ll feel much better if you channel your nervous tension into something positive.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You’re feeling lucky today which could tempt you to take an unnecessary risk. Maintaining a positive attitude is usually a wise decision, but it might be too much of a good thing now. A gamble won’t automatically lead to loss, but choosing a proven path improves your chances for success even more. Don’t be greedy and reach too far; set a realistic goal and then apply yourself diligently to reach it.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Although you can see into the distance now and have an ambitious plan to reach your goals, your foundation may be weak if you don’t trust your perceptions. You might be so self-critical that you think you won’t be able to sustain your productivity as you move into unfamiliar territory. You could exhaust yourself before you reach your destination if you are pushing too hard. Paradoxically, slowing down today can actually help you achieve success quicker than you think.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You may be running around in circles today, distracted by every little thing that comes along. However, instant karma gets you each time you wander and immediately puts you back on track. You don’t have a lot of time to waste if you want to complete the tasks that are on your plate. Thankfully, you could surprise yourself by how much you accomplish if you have clear intentions and stay focused on your goals.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

This is a critical phase, for you recently embarked on an exciting new path. But you could run into problems today as someone blocks your way. You might even wonder if you’re heading in the right direction. However, there’s no reason to get discouraged; the current obstacles are meant to help you get serious about your work rather than stopping your progress. Don’t quit now; your follow-through is required to bring your project into the future.

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